The 5th annual Cox Providence Rhode Races kick off in early May! The kids’ fun run and 5K take place at Roger Williams Park that Saturday afternoon, May 5th, followed by the Cox Sports Marathon and half marathon on Sunday morning, May 6th. The Cox Sports Marathon, which begins in downtown Providence, is USATF certified and is a 2013 Boston Marathon qualifier. The top 3 male and female marathon finishers will receive a cash prize based on gun time. 

Last May, over 6,000 runners from around the world competed in the races. The marathon course is relatively flat and offers a mix of urban and rural neighborhoods. From downtown Providence, runners head south towards the East Bay, following the tree-lined, scenic  bike path. For the half marathon, runners follow a course starting downtown and heading along the river to India Point Park and Blackstone Boulevard before turning around and finishing back downtown.  

Registration for the full marathon costs $100 before May 1st, $110 during the onsite expo, and $120 on the day of the race. To register in advance, visit: coxrhoderaces.com. Click here for hotel and travel info.

Photo: George Ross, 2011.